Stray dogs may prove an obstacle

Mark Cavendish will be racing tomorrow, but for some teams stray dogs will be as big a threat. The 167 km cycling road race will see a top quality field, as has been the case in most cycling events in Delhi. However, reports of stray dogs roaming sections of the track, and scavenging at various points, have some teams worried.

Though OC secretary general Lalit Bhanot assured us that, "Barricading of the course has been finished. Since the event is outdoors, extra efforts have been made to ensure the safety of the riders, marshals and all other officials. We are sure the race will go off without a hitch."

A number of team officials from various countries have visited the track, and have expressed satisfaction with the arrangements.

However, a Scottish team source said there were some concerns on the safety front.

However, India's head coach Chayan Chowdhary said, "We have visisted the course many times and our riders have also been around the circuit. The barricading is fine, and there should not be a problem."

Asked about the team's hopes tomorrow, Chowdhary said, "We are looking for a top-ten finish. The field is tight, but we are hopeful."

The young Indian squad has put in some good performances, with better than expected results in the men's Team Sprint and Team Pursuit, and women's Scratch race.Five Indians will be in the fray in both the men and women's races.